Crews replaced slabs of concrete on Runway 5L/23R in 2022 as part of the ongoing maintenance of the runway and adjacent taxiway – one of RDU’s most important capital projects. The 10,000-foot runway, RDU’s longest, was built in the mid-1980’s. The slabs have to be replaced when they begin to show signs of wear so aircraft departing for long-haul destinations can keep using it.

This time lapse video captures nearly 20 hours of preservation work on 5L/23R and Taxiway B, bookended by the departure and arrival of American Airlines’ London flight. In between, crews demolish a 625-square-foot slab of concrete, pour a new one and let it dry before it’s time to reopen the runway to air traffic. RDU is working with the FAA to secure approval to replace 5L/23R.